Win through your Actions, Never through Argument

Any momentary triumph you think gained through argument is really a mirage:  The resentment and ill will you stir up is stronger and lasts longer than any momentary change of opinion.  It is much more powerful to get others to agree with you through your actions, without saying a word.  Demonstrate, do not explicate.

The saying, “Action speaks louder than word…” could be based on this truth. In business, be argumentative can cause you too lose customers, suppliers and create a negative image for your business. Rather than get into a war of words, demonstrate your ‘rightness’ !

Keeping good records of transactions and keeping detailed project notes is the greatest tool to help you demonstrate your ‘correctness’ when handling  disputes. Whether it be financial disputes or disputes concerning the actual service or product. It’s hard to argue with a paper trail!

Creating a positive image in your daily interactions helps tremendously, when a dispute arises. People come to recognize your business as ‘up-standing’ and are more willing to forgive an occasional mistake or dispute.

Be Humble. Be willing to take a small loss to retain a customer. An angry or disgruntled customer is much more likely to speak negatively of your business than a satisfied customer is to speak positively of your business! It’s just human nature. Anger is a great motivator!